article thumbnail

Striding Snake-killers

10,000 Birds

They typically dispatch a snake by stomping on it with their heavily armored legs and feet, accurately directing their rear talons at the skull to effect a swift mortal wound to the head. Watching them hunt is fascinating. We stayed with the larger bird as it settled down to the serious business of hunting. Note the huge wings.

Botswana 217
article thumbnail

Starlings and Eagles

10,000 Birds

To assess their populations, draw their blood, test them for lead, and discover what kind of impact feeding on gut piles might have on these iconic raptors, particularly the young ones, as hunting season begins in Montana. To gain knowledge of migration routes, wintering sites, survival rates. To understand, and thus to protect.

Eagles 171